Lion Hill Park
Iconic hill offering breathtaking panoramic views of Lijiang Old Town and Yu Long Snow Mountain, with a vibrant night market and dining scene.
Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Serene views, fewer crowds
Lion Hill Park
Best Time
Serene views, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic hill offering breathtaking panoramic views of Lijiang Old Town and Yu Long Snow Mountain, with a vibrant night market and dining scene.
"The view above is amazing and it’ll make the hike feel worthwhile."
👟 Comfortable Hiking Shoes
Wear sturdy shoes for the hike up the hill. The path is well-maintained but can be steep in parts.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera or phone for stunning photos of Lijiang Old Town and Yu Long Snow Mountain.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Lijiang Old Town View
Summit of Lion Hill
Breathtaking 360-degree views of the ancient city and surrounding mountains. A truly unforgettable sight.
Yu Long Snow Mountain Vista
Summit of Lion Hill
Gaze upon the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain on a clear day. An iconic backdrop to Lijiang.
Lively Night Market
Base of Lion Hill
Discover local crafts, souvenirs, and street food in a bustling evening market atmosphere.
Restaurants with Live Music
Overlooking Lijiang Old Town
Enjoy delicious food and drinks with live bands and a pleasant breeze. Perfect for a relaxed evening.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for the Best Views
Embrace the Local Vibe
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Comfortable Hiking Shoes
Wear sturdy shoes for the hike up the hill. The path is well-maintained but can be steep in parts.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera or phone for stunning photos of Lijiang Old Town and Yu Long Snow Mountain.
🍻 Enjoy Local Brews
Many terraces offer German beer and other drinks with fantastic views. Perfect for a relaxing break.
🛍️ Explore the Night Market
Don't miss the night market for unique souvenirs and local snacks. Great for evening exploration.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Comfortable Hiking Shoes
Wear sturdy shoes for the hike up the hill. The path is well-maintained but can be steep in parts.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera or phone for stunning photos of Lijiang Old Town and Yu Long Snow Mountain.
🍻 Enjoy Local Brews
Many terraces offer German beer and other drinks with fantastic views. Perfect for a relaxing break.
🛍️ Explore the Night Market
Don't miss the night market for unique souvenirs and local snacks. Great for evening exploration.
🎶 Live Music Scene
Experience the lively atmosphere with bands playing in the restaurants and bars.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Lion Hill Park for its breathtaking panoramic views of Lijiang Old Town and Yu Long Snow Mountain, making the hike incredibly rewarding. The lively night market and restaurants with live music add to the vibrant atmosphere, offering a complete cultural experience. Some find the Lijiang Old Town maintenance fee a bit of a hassle, and dining at the terrace restaurants can be on the pricier side.
"Great hike up the small hill itself! The hike is relatively easy, you could probably reach the top in 2 hours or less if you are averagely fit. The view above is amazing and it’ll make the hike feel worthwhile, you could see Yu Long Snow Mountain and the city of Lijiang itself from above!"
Wilfred Loy Yong Kang
"Perfect view point over Lijiang Old Town. Lots of great restaurants and bars with live music and bands to enjoy a late afternoon.
Many have terraces overlooking Lijiang Old Town with a nice breeze where you can enjoy a great drink and even German Beer 🍺 .
What better place is there ?!"
R C L
"There is a night market"
Chris Chee
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lion Hill Park is conveniently located right in the heart of Lijiang Old Town, making it easily accessible on foot. Simply head towards the prominent hill in the center of the town. Many visitors find it a pleasant walk from their accommodation within the old town.
As Lion Hill Park is situated within Lijiang Old Town, which is largely pedestrianized, there is no direct parking at the park itself. You'll need to park your vehicle in designated parking areas outside the old town and then walk in.
Taxis can drop you off at the entrances of Lijiang Old Town. From there, you will need to walk to Lion Hill Park. The park is centrally located, so it's a short and scenic walk.
While there isn't direct public transport to the summit, buses and taxis can take you to the periphery of Lijiang Old Town. From there, it's a walk to the base of Lion Hill.
The most common way to reach the top is by hiking the well-maintained paths. It's a relatively easy hike that can be completed in under two hours for most fitness levels.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Generally, there is no separate entrance fee for Lion Hill Park itself. However, if you are entering Lijiang Old Town, you might be required to purchase a Lijiang Old Town maintenance fee, which covers access to the area including Lion Hill.
Lion Hill Park is typically open from early morning until late at night, allowing visitors to enjoy both sunrise and sunset views, as well as the vibrant night market. Specific hours can vary, so it's always good to check locally.
The viewpoints from Lion Hill Park are generally free to access. The primary cost associated with visiting the area might be the Lijiang Old Town maintenance fee.
Yes, Lion Hill Park is accessible at night and is a popular spot to experience the illuminated Lijiang Old Town and the lively night market.
The Lijiang Old Town maintenance fee is usually collected at entry points to the old town. It's advisable to be prepared for this fee when planning your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
For an average fitness level, the hike to the top of Lion Hill typically takes between 1 to 2 hours. You can adjust your pace to enjoy the scenery along the way.
At the summit, you'll find incredible panoramic views of Lijiang Old Town, the surrounding valleys, and on clear days, the majestic Yu Long Snow Mountain. There are also observation decks and resting spots.
Restroom facilities are generally available at the base of Lion Hill and at various points along the trails and at the summit.
Yes, the hike is generally considered easy to moderate and suitable for children. However, keep an eye on them, especially near viewpoints.
You can hike, enjoy photography, relax at cafes and restaurants, explore the night market, and soak in the stunning views of Lijiang.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are numerous restaurants and bars located on the terraces overlooking Lijiang Old Town, offering a variety of cuisines and drinks.
You can find local Naxi cuisine, Chinese dishes, and some international options. Many places offer German beer and have live music.
Absolutely! A vibrant night market operates at the base of Lion Hill, offering a wide array of street food and local snacks.
Prices can vary, but generally, dining with a view on Lion Hill might be slightly more expensive than in other parts of Lijiang Old Town. However, many find it worth it for the ambiance.
Yes, many establishments on Lion Hill have terraces specifically designed for enjoying drinks with spectacular views of Lijiang.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning and late afternoon offer the best light for photography, with softer shadows and beautiful golden hour hues. Evenings provide a different charm with the illuminated old town.
The summit offers the most iconic panoramic shots of Lijiang Old Town and Yu Long Snow Mountain. The terraces with restaurants also provide great framing opportunities.
A standard smartphone camera is usually sufficient to capture the beauty of Lion Hill and its surroundings. However, a DSLR or mirrorless camera will offer more flexibility for advanced photography.
Generally, there are no specific restrictions on photography for personal use within Lion Hill Park. However, always be mindful of private property and any posted signs.
Expect to capture sweeping landscapes, cityscapes of Lijiang Old Town, mountain vistas, and vibrant scenes from the night market and restaurants.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during the day for a more relaxed pace. The night market at the base can also be an exciting experience for kids, with its colorful stalls and variety of snacks. Ensure children have comfortable shoes and stay hydrated during the hike.
🚶 Budget Travelers
For dining, explore the bustling night market for affordable and delicious street food options. While restaurants on the terraces offer great ambiance, they can be pricier. You can opt for a drink at one of these places to enjoy the view without committing to a full meal.
📸 Photographers
Don't forget to capture the vibrant atmosphere of the night market and the charming details of the old town from above. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to encompass the vast scenery and a tripod for low-light evening shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Hike Up Lion Hill
Many travelers recommend wearing comfortable hiking shoes as the paths can be uneven and steep in certain sections. The effort is widely considered worthwhile, as the reward is an unparalleled view. The experience of walking through the natural landscape leading up to the peak adds to the overall enjoyment of visiting Lion Hill Park.
Tips for the Hike
* Wear appropriate footwear: Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are essential.
* Stay hydrated: Carry water, especially during warmer months.
* Pace yourself: Take breaks as needed and enjoy the journey.
* Check the weather: Clear skies are best for optimal views.
Experiencing Lijiang Old Town from Above
On clear days, the view extends beyond the city to encompass the majestic Yu Long Snow Mountain (Jade Dragon Snow Mountain). This iconic snow-capped peak serves as a breathtaking backdrop, adding a dramatic natural element to the urban landscape. The contrast between the ancient city and the towering mountains is a photographer's dream and a truly memorable sight for any visitor.
Photography Tips for the View
* Golden Hour: Aim for sunrise or sunset for the most dramatic lighting.
* Wide-angle lens: Capture the expansive panorama of the city and mountains.
* Include foreground elements: Use trees or architectural details to add depth to your shots.
The Evening Buzz: Night Market and Dining
Adding to the evening's charm are the numerous restaurants and bars situated on terraces overlooking Lijiang Old Town. These establishments often feature live music, creating a festive and enjoyable atmosphere. Visitors can savor local delicacies or enjoy a refreshing drink while taking in the illuminated cityscape. Many reviewers specifically mention enjoying German beer here, adding a unique touch to the dining experience.
Evening Highlights
* Night Market: Explore stalls for souvenirs and local snacks.
* Live Music: Enjoy performances at restaurants with city views.
* Terrace Dining: Savor food and drinks with a picturesque backdrop.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit